Julie K. Hopkins

Julie K. Hopkins

Julie K. Hopkins, age 67, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at her home in Hudson, Wisconsin.

Julie was born on July 13, 1952 in Baldwin, WI, to parents Arlo and Darlene (Alton) Johnson. Julie grew up as the oldest of five children, spending her childhood in Lake St. Croix Beach, MN, Hudson, WI, and finally Hammond, WI, where she graduated from St. Croix Central High School in 1970.

Julie met the love of her life, Gerald Hopkins, later in 1970. They were married in Baldwin, WI, on December 11th of that year. Julie and Jerry became parents to Keri Jo in October of 1971, and to Jeffrey Allen in January of 1975. Julie spent her working years at Newton's Grocery Store, the Hammond Post Office, and Andersen Windows. Julie held many positions during her time at Andersens, from which she retired in 2001. The title she was most proud to hold, though, was "Grandma Julie," which she held for nearly 30 years and adored every minute of.

Julie was a social butterfly who always wanted to surround herself with family and friends. She loved life and could always find a reason to celebrate, whether it be a holiday, happy hour, or even a pet's birthday. Julie also enjoyed traveling, preferably with as many family members as possible. As a July baby she loved to visit any place sunny, sporting her memorable sunglasses and sandals. She loved wintering with Jerry in Arizona and, recently, in Florida; she formed many wonderful friendships during their time down south. During the summer, she could be found up at the cabin in Webster, WI, tubing behind the pontoon, enjoying a good bonfire, and trail-riding in the side-by-sides with Jerry and other family members. She was a dedicated mom and grandma and would never miss one of Keri or the grandkids' events. She loved spoiling them rotten, even as they became adults. They were the center of her world.

Julie will be remembered for her love of her friends and family, as well as her fun and "let's party!" attitude. She will be missed greatly by her husband Jerry; daughter Keri Jo (Tim) Thurmes; grandchildren Brittany (Ben Collette) Herink, Ashley Herink, and Jacob Thurmes; parents Arlo and Darlene Johnson; siblings Bruce (Cris) Johnson, Pam (Barry) Grant, Randy (Nanci) Johnson, and Shari Schultz; nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey, and parents-in-law William and Florence Hopkins.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, August 5, 2019, at O'Connell Family Funeral Home in Hudson, WI. A time to visit will be from 10am to 12pm with a service starting at 12pm. Memorials are preferred to the discretion of the family.